Beethoven initially dedicated his Third Symphony to Napoleon Bonaparte, but famously tore up the title page when Napoleon declared himself Emperor in 1804, changing the title to 'Sinfonia Eroica'.
Composition History
The main melody of Beethoven's 'Eroica' Symphony originated as the modest seventh of twelve 'contredances' (WoO 14).
Critical Reception
At its public premiere in 1805, the 'Eroica' Symphony confused and wearied its audience, with one listener offering an extra 'kreuzer' if it would only stop.
Compositional Technique
The 'Eroica' Symphony was nearly double the duration of most previous symphonies, a factor that initially contributed to its mixed reception.
Composer Biography
Beethoven contemplated suicide in 1802 due to his advancing deafness, as revealed in his 'Heiligenstadt Testament,' a letter addressed to his brothers but discovered posthumously.
Recording & Production
This recording was made in August 2007 at Helsingborgs Konserthus, Sweden, and was produced by Robina G. Young.
Performer Biography
Andrew Manze, the conductor, was appointed Principal Conductor of the Helsingborg Symphony Orchestra in 2006 and is also Artist-in-residence at the Swedish Chamber Orchestra.
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